Royal Antwerp Stuns Barcelona in Champions League Upset
Unheralded Belgian Club Shocks European Giants
Antwerp, Belgium - December 13, 2023
In a stunning upset, Royal Antwerp FC defeated FC Barcelona 3-2 in a Champions League Group C match on Tuesday. The victory marks Antwerp's first-ever win in Europe's elite club competition.
Despite Barcelona's dominance of possession, Antwerp took a shock lead through a brace from striker Vincent Janssen. Barcelona replied through goals from Robert Lewandowski and Ansu Fati, but Antwerp regained the lead with a second-half strike from Michel-Ange Balikwisha.
Barcelona, already assured of a place in the knockout stages, made a number of changes to their starting lineup. But the hosts took full advantage, pressing Barcelona relentlessly and creating a number of chances.
The win is a major triumph for Antwerp, who are currently third in the Belgian First Division A. It also gives them a chance to finish top of their Champions League group and earn a place in the last 16.
For Barcelona, the defeat is a setback but does not prevent them from qualifying for the knockout stages. However, it will raise questions about their form and their ability to compete with the best teams in Europe.
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